2022 Pastourelle de Clerc Milon, Pauillac

Bright blackcurrants and soft florals on the nose. Plump, plush, and friendly, this has immediate juiciness with soft, cushioned tannins that give a crisp grip. Fresh and fruity with a broad mid-palate, though not the longest. The mint chocolate cooling effect on the finish is delightful. Well-balanced in texture and body, making it highly accessible. A crowd-pleaser with mouthwatering appeal, bottled in June. Easygoing but well-crafted, this offers pure drinking pleasure. 3.78pH. No new oak. (GH)

The second wine of Clerc-Milon, a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Carmenère and 1% Petit Verdot, and the élevage was in second-fill barrels for twelve months. The nose is filled with lightly dried berries, vanilla and peppered strawberry. The palate is fresh, charming and accessible, with a finely honed texture supporting a core of ripe and lightly grained tannins with dried berry fruits tinged with leather and crushed chalk. Very approachable, drinkable now or certainly very soon. The alcohol is 14.47%, with 14.5% on the label. (CK)